A major new drive to help more people in Cumbria take up golf is being launched next month (August).

Clubs throughout the county are backing the Golf 4 All campaign which offers six lessons with a qualified PGA professional.

Golf 4 All is a project that offers high quality coaching for newcomers to the sport or those looking to return to playing golf - all for FREE.

And there is no need to make an immediate investment in golf equipment.

The scheme - which is aimed at the 16 plus age bracket - is being organised by the Cumbria Golf Partnership and offers

- SIX coaching sessions with a qualified PGA professional. These will cover all aspects of the game from basic swing, pitching, putting and bunker play.

- All equipment will be provided

The new round of free coaching follows a similar scheme which was held earlier in the year and proved very popular.

More than 100 would-be golfers took the chance to try the sport, and nearly half of them have gone on to take up golf club membership.

Feedback from the initial scheme included:

"I have been meaning to have a go for a long time and then this opportunity came along so it gave me the push to get started." (Alison Broomby - Kendal)

"It's a great opportunity to introduce beginners to the game." (Dave Turner, Golf Pro, Carus Green)

"My son is a member so thought we could make it a regular weekend social activity so we could spend time together... I have found the sessions very helpful and I've learnt a lot." (Chris Berry - Appleby)

"I have played golf before and I thought it was a good way to get back into playing again... plus it was a chance to meet other people." (Christine Haworth - Appleby)

Jane Robinson, the Cumbria partnership's County Development Officer, said: "Golf is a sport that can be enjoyed by all ages and abilities and this scheme will help those interested in trying the sport enjoy some top quality coaching without it costing them a penny.

"For those who might have played the game when they were younger, this scheme also gives an opportunity to brush up on their old skills and rediscover their love of golf.

"The lessons will provide a fun and structured introduction to the game, so no matter what age you are it is never too late to take up golf. The feedback we have received has been very positive and people have found it a great way to enjoy an introduction to golf, with many of them maintaining that interest through their local clubs.

"As well as the sporting challenge of playing the game, it is a great way of meeting new people, enjoying a healthy lifestyle out in the fresh air and a thriving social scene, especially if you go on to become a member of a golf club."

Anyone interested is asked to book their sessions direct with the club they want to attend.

The clubs taking part, their contact details and the date the courses start are: